$668/Week EI Caregiving Benefit 2024: See If You Qualify & Key Payment Dates!

The Canadian government offers the Employment Insurance (EI) Caregiving Benefit to support individuals who need to take time off work to care for critically ill or injured family members or those requiring end-of-life care.

As of 2024, eligible caregivers can receive up to $668 per week. This article provides detailed information on eligibility criteria, payment amounts, application procedures, and key payment dates.

Understanding the EI Caregiving Benefit

The EI Caregiving Benefit provides financial assistance to caregivers who experience a reduction of more than 40% in their regular weekly earnings due to caregiving responsibilities. The benefit covers three categories:

1. Family Caregiver Benefit for Children: Up to 35 weeks for caregivers of critically ill or injured individuals under 18 years of age.
2. Family Caregiver Benefit for Adults: Up to 15 weeks for caregivers of critically ill or injured individuals 18 years or older.
3. Compassionate Care Benefit: Up to 26 weeks for caregivers of individuals of any age requiring end-of-life care.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the EI Caregiving Benefit, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Reduction in Earnings: Experience a decrease of more than 40% in regular weekly earnings due to caregiving responsibilities.
• Insurable Hours: Accumulate at least 600 insurable hours of work in the 52 weeks preceding the claim or since the start of the last claim, whichever is shorter.
• Medical Certificate: Provide a medical certificate from a doctor or nurse practitioner confirming the family member’s critical illness, injury, or need for end-of-life care.

Payment Amounts

The benefit amount is calculated as 55% of the claimant’s average insurable weekly earnings, up to a maximum of $668 per week in 2024. The exact amount depends on the claimant’s previous earnings and the number of insurable hours worked.

Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for the EI Caregiving Benefit:

1. Gather Necessary Documents: Collect your Social Insurance Number (SIN), banking information for direct deposit, and a medical certificate for the family member requiring care.
2. Complete the Application: Apply online through the Government of Canada’s website or visit a Service Canada Centre for assistance.
3. Submit the Application: Ensure all information is accurate and submit the application promptly.
4. Receive Access Code: After applying, you’ll receive a 4-digit access code by mail, which, along with your SIN, allows you to access your EI information online.

Key Payment Dates

EI payments are issued every two weeks. After your application is approved, you can expect the first payment within 28 days. Subsequent payments will follow the bi-weekly schedule. For specific payment dates, refer to the Benefits payment dates on the Government of Canada’s website.

Can I share the EI Caregiving Benefit with another caregiver?

Yes, the benefit can be shared among eligible caregivers, either simultaneously or consecutively, but the total weeks claimed cannot exceed the maximum allowed for each benefit type.

Can I work while receiving the EI Caregiving Benefit?

Yes, you can work while receiving the benefit. However, your earnings may affect the amount you receive. It’s important to report any work and earnings to Service Canada.

What if the person I’m caring for passes away?

If the person you’re caring for passes away, you must inform Service Canada immediately, as this will affect your eligibility for the benefit.